President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of U.S. troops to war ravaged Portland, Oregon, authorizing the use of full force if needed. I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists, Trump stated in a post on Truth Social. I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary. This marks a significant escalation in the deployment of troops in American cities, amidst a broader crackdown on illegal immigration by the Trump administration.
Portland's Democratic lawmakers had previously expressed opposition to Trump's troop deployment plans. Mayor Keith Wilson stated earlier this month, I have not asked for - and do not need - federal intervention. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Portland has been targeted by protesters, sometimes resulting in violent confrontations that have left federal agents injured. Trump's post did not clarify whether he intends to activate the National Guard or regular U.S. military.
Earlier this week, Trump hinted at an operation in Portland, claiming, We're going to get out there and we're going to do a pretty big number on those people in Portland, referring to those he labeled as professional agitators and anarchists. Trump's comments have stirred further outrage among local officials, especially after he signed an order designating antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
Democratic lawmakers in Oregon have strongly criticized Trump's remarks and the alleged conduct of ICE agents in the state. Representative Suzanne Bonamici emphasized that ICE's targeting of individuals for arrest and detention has not reflected the narratives presented by the agency itself.
